Horticulture & University Gardens

Director (Horticulture & University Gardens)
	Dr Chelmala Srinivasulu Professor, Department of Zoology,UCS, OU. Director, Horticulture & University Gardens, OU. Contact No: 8331041294.

Gardens, Green Belt and Sanitation

The Directorate of Gardens, Green Belt and Sanitation at Osmania University stands as a testament to the institution's unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable campus development. Through systematic management of green spaces and implementation of eco-friendly initiatives, the directorate plays a pivotal role in maintaining the university's status as a premier green campus in urban Hyderabad.

University Landscape Garden: A Living Heritage

At the heart of the university's green infrastructure lies the historic University Landscape Garden, encompassing 35 acres of the total 75 acres dedicated to managed gardens. This flagship green space, which once served as the prestigious venue for university convocations until 1970, has evolved into a multifunctional ecosystem. Beyond its role as a recreational space for the university community and city residents, the garden serves as a crucial biodiversity reservoir, supporting various flora and fauna within the urban landscape. Its expansive green cover contributes significantly to carbon sequestration and microclimate regulation, while also providing an ideal venue for prestigious academic gatherings, including international conferences.

Integrated Green Space Management

The directorate's scope extends beyond the Landscape Garden, encompassing the maintenance of several key green spaces including the Vice Chancellor's Residence Garden, Administrative Building Garden, and extensive avenue plantations. Through a strategic partnership with the Urban Forestry division of HMDA, the directorate continues to enhance these spaces while developing new landscaping initiatives. This comprehensive approach to green space management ensures the preservation and enhancement of the university's environmental assets.

The Green Belt Initiative: Transforming Urban Ecology

A landmark achievement in the university's environmental history is the Green Belt Initiative, launched in 1986 as part of the Government of India's energy plantation programme. This visionary project has transformed over 1,000 acres of campus land into a thriving urban forest. The initiative's success is evidenced by a measurable reduction in local temperatures by 2-3°C, demonstrating its effectiveness in mitigating urban heat island effects. This extensive green belt not only serves as a critical carbon sink but also provides essential ecosystem services to the metropolitan area, functioning as a vital lung space in an increasingly urbanized landscape.

Recent Environmental Achievements

Recent years have witnessed remarkable progress in expanding the university's green cover. Through collaborative efforts with GHMC, HMDA, and NSS students, the directorate has successfully planted approximately 550,000 avenue plants and 50,000 fruit-bearing trees. This massive plantation drive strengthens the campus's role in urban biodiversity conservation while enhancing its carbon sequestration capacity. Additionally, the integration of seasonal plantings across campus gardens has created diverse habitats supporting various species of birds, butterflies, and other wildlife.

Future Environmental Initiatives

Looking toward the future, the directorate has proposed several ambitious environmental projects aimed at enhancing campus sustainability. These include the restoration of the lake in University Landscape Garden, implementation of comprehensive rainwater harvesting systems, rejuvenation of borewells through recharge systems, and installation of water percolation pits. These initiatives reflect the university's proactive approach to water conservation and groundwater recharge, further cementing its position as a leader in sustainable campus development.

Through these concerted efforts, Osmania University continues to demonstrate its commitment to environmental conservation, serving as a model for sustainable urban development while providing crucial ecosystem services to the metropolitan region. The university's green initiatives not only contribute to global climate action through enhanced carbon sequestration but also create a healthier, more sustainable environment for future generations.